Tumberos

The song 'Tumberos' by Yerba Brava delves into the harsh and gritty reality of prison life. Yerba Brava is an Argentine cumbia band known for their songs that often reflect the struggles and stories of the working class. The term 'tumbero' is Argentine slang for a prison guard, but it can also refer to someone who is accustomed to prison life. The lyrics of 'Tumberos' paint a picture of the daily life inside a prison, highlighting the camaraderie among inmates ('pegado re-jugado hasta las manos') and the adversarial relationship with the guards ('A los violines los hacemos nuestros gatos').

The chorus of the song ('Tumbero yo soy, ya voy a salir. Tumbero yo soy, que se arme el motín.') expresses a sense of identity and belonging to the prison community, as well as a desire for freedom and possibly a call for rebellion ('que se arme el motín' suggests the initiation of a riot). The repeated line 'Cuando esté afuera, te vas a morir' implies a threat or a promise of revenge once the narrator is released, indicating the cycle of violence that often continues beyond prison walls.

The song's narrative is a reflection of the tough conditions within the penal system, the culture of violence, and the impact of incarceration on individuals. It also touches on themes of power dynamics, survival, and the anticipation of release. 'Tumberos' provides a raw and unfiltered look into the life of inmates, offering listeners a glimpse into a world that is often hidden from public view.